LAHORE: Lahore’s provincial government announced new measures on Sunday to tackle worsening air pollution and smog in the city. The plan includes 24/7 monitoring of trucks and trolleys carrying construction materials, along with a ban on the entry of heavy vehicles that do not adhere to standard operating procedures.
Authorities will enforce a zero-tolerance policy on vehicles emitting visible smoke and will take daily action against overloaded trolleys. Transporters must ensure all sand, gravel, soil, and other loose materials are fully covered with tarpaulins when using public roads.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has heightened inspections at Lahore’s entry points, with heavy fines and vehicle suspensions for those violating environmental rules. EPA teams, alongside WASA and district officials, will conduct continuous water-sprinkling operations at construction sites and identified dust-prone areas to reduce airborne particles.
Water sprinkling will start at night to minimize dust before morning traffic, with field units remaining on-site until air quality improves. A strict enforcement campaign against vehicles emitting excessive smoke will see repeat offenders’ vehicles immediately immobilised.
The chief minister has mandated that all trucks and trolleys transporting construction materials must have proper tarps, and all departments are required to submit regular reports on anti-smog efforts. Authorities will also release enforcement data and fines to ensure transparency and encourage compliance.
An expanded public awareness campaign will educate drivers, contractors, and the public on best practices to reduce dust and emissions. Officials emphasized that this combined approach aims to improve air quality in Lahore before the onset of the winter smog season.
Authorities warned that strict penalties, including fines and vehicle bans, will continue until air quality stabilises, urging full cooperation to safeguard public health.
